"It ain't over 'til it's over," Yogi Berra said years ago. His words are just as true today for car buyers. Once you've made your deal, we'll help steer you through the maze known as the business office or finance and insurance office, then take a detailed look at new-car warranties -- what they say and what they don't -- and examine the worth of extended warranties. We'll even reveal the secret behind that pesky "check engine" light.

Warranty wisdom -- You may not need to add the cost of extended service agreements, if you understand the risks.

Solving the 'check engine' mystery -- Advanced auto technology has brought us cleaner cars, computer diagnostics and the bane of all drivers: the check engine light. Depending on your driving temperament, it's something to be ignored or a warning that fills you with fear.

When a new car goes bad -- If your new-car smell has a lemony scent, you have protection under state and federal laws.

Should you extend your auto warranty? -- If you buy a car, new or used, you'll probably get plenty of offers for extended warranties. The question is: good idea or bad?

-- Posted: Dec. 9, 2003